Pope Leo XIV, the US-born pontiff, experienced a rather earthly frustration when a bank employee hung up on him, mistaking his legitimate call for a prank. The incident unfolded two months into his papacy as he attempted to update his personal details, including his address and phone number, with his Chicago-based bank from the Vatican.
How the Confusion Unfolded
According to John Prevost, the Pope's brother, the teller insisted that the account holder must appear in person at the bank to process the changes. When Mr Prevost informed the sceptical employee that she was speaking to the Pope, who was currently in Rome, she responded with a dismissive "Oh really?" before abruptly ending the call.
Resolution Through a Local Representative
The situation was eventually resolved when a local representative, described by Mr Prevost as "one of the provincials," visited the bank in person to verify the Pope's identity and complete the necessary paperwork. The incident highlights the challenges faced by even the most prominent figures when dealing with standard bureaucratic procedures across international borders.
Related coverage includes reports on Pope Leo's diplomatic interactions, notably his downplaying of tensions with former US President Donald Trump.
